New office location: 11713 Shadow Creek Pkwy, Pearland, TX 77584
FDA-Cleared MACI® Regenerative Treatment for Knee Cartilage
Knee pain can stop you from living your best life. Simple activities like walking can become painful when your knee cartilage wears down or gets damaged. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we use the latest medical technology to help patients regain comfort and mobility.
MACI® (Matrix-induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implant) is one of our most advanced treatments. This FDA-approved technique uses your own cells to heal damaged knee cartilage. Dr. Robert L. Burke provides expert care to help patients in Pearland and the Greater Houston area get back to their normal activities.
What is MACI® Regenerative Treatment
MACI® is an advanced treatment designed to repair damaged knee cartilage rather than simply remove damaged tissue. Unlike some standard procedures that focus on cleaning out the joint or replacing it with artificial components, MACI® aims to regenerate cartilage using the patient’s own cells.
This procedure uses your own cartilage cells to repair damaged spots in the knee. Doctors take a small sample of your cells, grow them in a lab, and then place them back into the damaged area. This helps your body rebuild healthy cartilage so your knee can move more smoothly again.
Why Is MACI® Used for Knee Cartilage
Articular cartilage is the resilient, slippery tissue that covers the ends of your bones. Because it does not have its own blood supply, it cannot heal itself once it is torn or worn down.
Left untreated, these small defects can expand, eventually leading to bone-on-bone friction and premature osteoarthritis. MACI® stops this progression by filling the defect with high-quality, functional cartilage.
Benefits of MACI® Treatment for Cartilage Repair
Patients who select MACI® treatment generally see long-term improvements in their daily lives. The treatment offers many benefits, such as:
- Uses Your Own Cells: Your own cells are used in this treatment so that your body does not reject the newly developed tissue.
- Restores Natural Function: MACI® helps grow cartilage that is similar to your natural knee for a smoother movement.
- Long-Lasting Results: The benefits of MACI® can last many years, keeping you active for longer.
- Reduces Pain: MACI® repairs affected areas in the cartilage to ease symptoms like locking and grinding in the knee.
For More Information
Are You an Ideal Candidate for MACI®
MACI® is specifically designed for certain types of knee damage. You may be an ideal candidate if you:
- Have localized cartilage damage (defects) rather than generalized bone-on-bone arthritis.
- Are an active individual or athlete looking to return to high-impact activities.
- Have knee pain caused by a specific injury or trauma.
- Are generally between the ages of 18 and 55, though Dr. Burke evaluates every patient on a case-by-case basis.
- Have tried conservative treatments (rest, physical therapy, or injections) without success.
How Dr. Burke Performs MACI® Treatment for Knee Cartilage Repair
The process of restoring your knee with MACI® is performed in a series of steps:
Biopsy (Collection phase)
Dr. Burke performs a minimally invasive procedure to take a tiny sample of your healthy knee cartilage. This sample is then sent to a specialized laboratory.
Cell growth (Processing phase)
Your cartilage cells are extracted and grown in the lab for a few weeks. When there are enough cells, they are deposited onto a thin collagen layer that keeps them in place.
Implantation (Repair phase)
Dr. Burke places your custom implant into the damaged area of your knee and shapes it to fit accurately. The cells grow and form healthy cartilage with time.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
You will need patience and dedication during recovery after MACI® because your body is growing new cartilage. It’s a gradual process so that the new tissue can grow properly and become strong. Dr. Burke and the physical therapy team can develop a helpful strategy for you.
At first, you will use crutches to protect your knee. You can slowly start exercising for added strength and movement. Most patients return to full activity within 6 to 12 months.
Why Choose MACI® Knee Cartilage Repair Specialist in Pearland, TX
Experience and technology matter most while choosing a provider for regenerative medicine. Dr. Burke, a board-certified surgeon with over 35 years of experience and a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, brings advanced skill in joint preservation and reconstruction.
Your complete treatment is taken care of, from the initial diagnosis to imaging to the MACI® procedure and even the post-procedure care. In addition, Dr. Burke makes customized treatment plans that help him determine if MACI® is right for you.
Our main focus is to preserve your natural joint for as long as possible and help you avoid or delay knee replacement.
Patient Testimonials
What Our Patients Are Saying
I never wait too long to be seen. Dr. Burke is very knowledgeable and has taken care of all of us in my family. Aaron his PA is also very skilled and knows his orthopedic medicine. We will always go to this office in Pearland.
Danielle Fish
Staff is very kind and courteous, I did not have to wait long at the time of my appointment and Dr. Burke is very thorough and really tries to help you. Highly recommend.
Scott Stevens
Dr. Burke was extremely thorough and professional throughout my entire evaluation and treatment process. He took the time to carefully review my MRI, perform a detailed exam, and clearly explain my diagnosis in a way that was easy to understand. Unlike previous experiences, he did not rush the appointment and was very patient in answering all of my questions and addressing my concerns.
Eugene Allen
Dr. Burke and his staff provide exceptional customer service! I love that Dr. Burke is very thorough and precise with his diagnosis and recommendations for treatment. He performed surgery for my torn meniscus about 3 years ago and I haven't had any complications since. My son has now been referred to Dr Burke for similar reasons with complete peace of mind, knowing he's in excellent care. Thank you Dr. Burke and Staff!!
Sandra Gonzalez
Dr. Burke and his staff are kind and compassionate. Having to deal with unpleasant situations, when in the office and having surgery, my mind is at ease knowing that im in great hands. Thank you for taking such good care of me.
Angela Williams
Dr Burke is very knowledgeable. He also has a very nice bedside manner. Shoulder pain is what brought me to see him. He reviewed my MRI results and informed me of some things other doctors missed. His staff administered a cortisone shot on the spot. Absolutely recommend seeing him for your orthopedic needs.
Chuck Schu
Everything You Need to Know Before Your Visit
Frequently Asked Questions
How is MACI® different from stem cell injections?
Unlike many unregulated stem cell treatments, MACI® is an FDA-cleared procedure with a proven mechanism. It uses your actual cartilage cells (chondrocytes) rather than generic stem cells, ensuring that the body produces the correct type of tissue for the knee joint.
How long does the procedure take?
The initial biopsy is a short arthroscopic procedure that often takes less than 30 minutes. The implantation is a more detailed surgery, but both are typically performed on an outpatient basis at our facility.
Is there an age limit for MACI®?
While MACI® is FDA-cleared for adults, it is most commonly performed on patients between 18 and 55. This is because the body’s regenerative capabilities are typically strongest in this range. However, Dr. Robert L. Burke evaluates every patient based on their biological age.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Don’t live with the limitations of knee cartilage damage. Experience the future of knee cartilage repair with MACI® regenerative treatment in Pearland, TX. Call us at (713) 436-3488 to book your appointment.